RUGER 10/22
Posted May 14, 2023
The Ruger 10/22 is a semi-automatic rifle manufactured since 1964 by the well-known gun maker, Sturm, Ruger & Co. It is one of the most popular and recognizable small-caliber rifles used today and has a truly impressive and varied history.
For over half a century, the Ruger 10/22 has been a favorite among users that range from casual shooters to serious hunters. Its iconic rifle design and reliable construction has made it particularly effective for target shooting and for hunting small game. The gun’s light weight and relatively low recoil makes it a reliable firearm for small-game hunting and pest control.
What makes the Ruger 10/22 special is the fact that it is chambered for widely available 22 Long Rifle cartridges and is designed with a blowback operation which keeps the gun from locking up when the action is closed. This means that the trigger and magazine are very reliable, which makes for smooth and accurate shots down range.
At a distance, looking at the Ruger 10/22, one can appreciate the elegant design, precise construction and detail put into each and every function of the gun. Sporting a hardwood stock with a black oxide finish, the 10/22 has an attractive, classic look. The 10/22 also has an adjustable, gold-plated trigger which helps improve accuracy and enhances the feel of the gun when shooting.
The Ruger 10/22 is known for its vast selection of accessories, making it highly customizable. With countless modifications and options, the gun can be tailored to fit any shooter’s preferences. Accessories such as barrels, scopes, stocks and magazines can all be changed to create a gun that is uniquely suited for whatever purpose the owner wants it to serve.
When firing the Ruger 10/22, the user will instantly recognize the legendary accuracy and low recoil. The gun is often noted for having very little kick when being fired. This is due to the blowback action, which helps absorb much of the recoil that would otherwise be felt by the shooter. The gun is also surprisingly light, weighing just 5.5 pounds unloaded, which makes it an ideal choice for shooters who are looking for a lightweight, accurate rifle.
On the downside, there are some complaints about the accuracy of the Ruger 10/22. An inexperienced shooter might not have the proper control of the gun and could cause the shots to straggle, leading to a decrease in accuracy. With some practice and manipulation of the gun’s settings, this can be resolved and the 10/22 will become as accurate as many other rifles on the market.
Overall, the Ruger 10/22 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable semi-automatic rifle. It is especially recommended for small frame shooters who are looking for a lightweight, low-recoil gun and for hunters who are looking to take down small game. The 10/22’s ability to be customized to fit any shooter’s personal preferences makes the gun even more appealing. While the accuracy may be lacking in inexperienced hands, with some practice, the Ruger 10/22 can be as accurate as any rifle.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
• Very reliable and accurate, even after extensive use
• Has a long barrel and light trigger pull that makes it easy to shoot
• Easy to mount accessories like scopes and lights
• Inexpensive and widely available
• Durable and low maintenance
Cons:
• Limited magazine capacity
• Weak recoil
• Plastic construction materials that have limited durability
• Limited customizability compared to other firearms
Who Should Buy
People who should buy a Ruger 10/22 are those who are looking for an affordable and reliable .22 rifle for recreational target shooting, small-game hunting, or even collecting. It is an extremely popular hunting rifle, and many hunters have grown up using this particular firearm for years.
People who shouldn't buy a Ruger 10/22 are those who are looking for more of a military-grade weapon, or are looking for something to defend their home with. While the Ruger 10/22 is very reliable and has a proven track record of success in the hunting world, it is not designed for self-defense or military operations.
Comparisons
| SAVAGE MARK II FV | MARLIN XT-22V |
|---|---|
| Bolt-Action | Bolt-Action |
| 18.5” | 21” |
| 10 & 25 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Autoloader | Bolt-Action |
| Semi-Automatic | Bolt-Action |
| .22 LR | .22 LR |
Features / Specs
•Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
•Action: Semi-automatic blowback
•Length of barrel: 18.5"
•Weight: 5.0 lbs
•Capacity: 10 round rotary magazine, 25 round detachable magazines available
•Sights: Adjustable open sights, other optical and iron sights available
•Stock: Black synthetic, other colors and materials available
•Price range: $170 to $500 depending on options
Popular Accessories
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- Scope
- Sling
- Magazine Extensions
- Tactical Forend
- Stripper Clips
- Stock
- Bipod
- Flash Hider
- Suppressor
- Laser Sight
Accuracy
The RUGER 10/22 is widely regarded to be one of the most accurate rimfire rifles ever made. This legendary firearm has been providing shooters with tack driving accuracy for over 50 years. The accuracy of the RUGER 10/22 stems from its wide selection of factory match grade barrel options and its adjustable sights. With a good trigger and accurized barrel and stock, a shooter can expect very good accuracy from the RUGER 10/22 with factory ammunition. Furthermore, the addition of custom/aftermarket parts can enhance accuracy further, making the RUGER 10/22 an excellent choice for target shooting and small-game hunting. All in all, the RUGER 10/22 is a reliable and accurate rifle that will last you a lifetime.
